More youth projects needed in Coventry, new poll says

More youth projects needed in Coventry, new poll says

27 June 2013

Coventry’s residents want more youth projects as a way of tackling antisocial behaviour, according to an independent survey commissioned by the People United - a coalition of unions including Unite, GMB, PCS, CWU and Unison.

The findings are from a survey of 14 English towns and cities involved in this summer’s People United bus tour, which showed that Coventry was the city most vocal in calling more youth projects and support services, with many people mentioning a lack of activities for young people and its effect on antisocial behaviour.

The People United bus, which arrives in Coventry on Monday 1 July, will be offering advice and information on local campaigns between 09.00-17.00 parked at Broadgate in the city centre, opposite the Godiva statue. On board the bus will be trade union experts and community specialists to offer advice and information on problems in and out-of-work.

There will also be a ‘question time’ event at Coventry Central Hall, Warwick Lane, Coventry CV1 2HA between 19.00 – 22.00 on Monday (1 July) to which the public are invited.

People in Coventry were most proud of their local history (18 per cent), in particular, Coventry’s response to the Blitz and the way it recovered after World War II. People were also proud of the architecture and specific buildings (17 per cent), with most people citing the ruins of Coventry cathedral which was bombed during the war and is now a tourist attraction.

Coventry had a high number of people with money related issues (25 per cent); those affected by unemployment and job security (20 per cent) and a fairly high proportion (11 per cent) with worries about the shortage of housing and high house prices.

People United is also asking people to share their ideas to get the economy growing and help build the ‘People’s manifesto’ to change our country for the better.

Unite regional secretary Gerard Coyne said: “People United will be in Coventry to hear more about what people have to say about improving their city and their country.

“We will also be here to offer help and support to local communities. This is a fantastic opportunity to make your voice heard and to make a difference.

“We are asking people to share their ideas to get the economy growing and help build the People’s manifesto to change our country for the better."

Survation interviewed 1,451 UK adults by telephone on 3-14 June 2013 in Leeds, Hartlepool, Hastings, Norwich, Middlesbrough, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Hull, Leicester, Peterborough, Blackpool, Coventry, Stoke-on-Trent and Bristol. Data were weighted to the profile of all adults aged 18+ in the relevant cities. Survation is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.

ENDS

For further information, please contact the Unite press office on 0203 371 2065,